On line conversation program and method

Abstract

A method and software are disclosed for providing a simulated interactive conversation in which searchable information is stored in a database in the form of text and/or oral recorded statements along with stored images of selected individuals or animated characters to whom questions are posed by the user through a user interface. The database is then searched, based on the wording of the question, for an appropriate response which is then provided to user either in text form or orally with lip sincing of said image.

What is claimed is:  
     
         1 . The method of providing a simulated interactive conversation comprising the steps of: 
 a. storing in a database searchable information in the form of text and/or oral recorded statements;    b. providing in the database stored images of selected individuals or animated characters.    c. using questions provided through a user interface to search the database for an appropriate response and providing the response to the user.    
     
     
         2 . The method as defined in    claim 1    wherein the step of providing the response comprises providing the response orally with lip sincing of said image.  
     
     
         3 . A software program for carrying out the methods of claims  1  and  2 .